Monica Tijerina Byrd

Born on March 12, 1980, in Berlin, Germany, to Duane and Yolanda Byrd, Monica was the second of three children, growing up alongside her brother, Samuel, and sister, Jenna.

From an early age, Monica was a bright, vibrant, and happy child with a curious mind and a natural gift for learning. She excelled academically and had a remarkable talent for mathematics and numbers. She graduated from Air Academy High School in Colorado Springs, Colorado, in 1999 and later pursued her interest in technical studies.

Monica was, above all else, a free spirit who marched to the beat of her own drum. She had a fiery personality, a quick wit, and a heart just as big as her spirit. She was easygoing, spontaneous, and unapologetically herself. She had a unique way of engaging with others, often bringing laughter into a room simply by being Monica.

Monica's kindness and generosity were as much a part of her as her adventurous, sometimes mischievous spirit. She had a special knack for finding herself in situations that were slightly questionable. There was rarely a dull moment when Monica was around, and she certainly gave her family and friends plenty of stories to tell, laughs to share, and memories to cherish.

Monica had an eye for the finer, flashier things in life. She loved a little sparkle, a fresh pair of sneakers, and a car that turned heads. But she also knew how to make the most of whatever she had. She could be just as happy cruising around the city in a car that had seen better days. As long as the stereo was bumpin', and the music was good, she was enjoying the ride, and life was just fine. That was Monica—she appreciated the finer things but never let what she had determine how much she enjoyed life.

Beneath her fiery exterior was an incredibly sweet, generous, and compassionate soul. Her friends remember her as empathetic, kind hearted, and genuinely caring. She had a natural ability to connect with people from all walks of life, accepting them as they were and offering friendship without judgment. She was the kind of person who could make you laugh when you least expected it and remind you not to take life quite so seriously.

Throughout her life, Monica enjoyed music, sports, cooking, and spending time with family and friends. She loved good food, good company, and the simple joy of being together. She also had a special place in her heart for animals, especially her beloved dogs. Her pit bull, King, and Dogo Argentino, Maserati, were among her most cherished companions and brought her tremendous happiness.

Monica is survived by her loving mother, Yolanda Byrd; her brother, Samuel Byrd; her sister, Jenna Byrd; and her three biological children, Khalil Byrd, Alyssa Rodriguez, and Mari Lopez. She also leaves behind friends and loved ones whose lives were touched by her warmth, humor, generosity, and unforgettable spirit.

Monica's life was not defined by material possessions, expectations, or the need to follow anyone else's path. She lived life her way, embracing the moment, enjoying her freedom, and finding joy wherever she could. She was beautifully imperfect, wonderfully unpredictable, and entirely herself.

Though her passing leaves an emptiness in the hearts of those who loved her, her memory will continue to bring smiles, laughter, and stories that begin with, "Remember that time Monica..."

And somewhere in those memories, the music will always be playing, the bass will always be bumpin', and Monica will forever be riding through life to the beat of her own drum.

Rest peacefully, Monica. You were one of a kind, and you will never be forgotten.

Please consider donating memorial contributions to a Tribute Tree in Monica's honor: gofundme.com/f/honoring-monicas-life-and-memory?attribution_id=sl%3A20722f10-242c-465e-92a3-fdbf203e9bb8&lang=en_US&ts=1793548567&utm_campaign=man_ss_icons&utm_content=amp30-treatment-3-social&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link&cp_src=d

Flowers can be sent to:

Swan-Law Funeral Directors

Attn: Monica Byrd

501 N Cascade Ave

Colorado Springs, CO 80903

Monica's Memorial Service will be held in the same location on November 14, 2026 from 4-6pm MT.